EASTHAMPTON, Mass. (WGGB/WSHM) - Students at Easthampton High School are fighting to save their schools and today they took that fight to the streets.

A debate over a proposed Proposition 2 1/2 override continues to grow. The students said they were trying to bring attention to what could happen if the override fails, including even more staff cuts and reductions to school programs.

Dozens of students walked out of Easthampton High School around 1:50 p.m. Tuesday with signs in hands, saying they wanted their voices heard ahead of the upcoming override vote.

The walkout even had the support of local leaders, including their principal and the mayor.

Students said this was about more than just a budget number. They said it was about protecting the teachers, programs, and opportunities they feel help define their school community.

In addition to 40 educator jobs already cut, students said potential cuts could include even more teaching positions along with cuts to band, drama, and possibly even the school’s “We the People” team.

One senior said that although she’ll soon be graduating, it’s important the extracurriculars and staff who helped shape her experience remain for future students.

“This has to have an everlasting effect for all the incoming students,” she said.

Easthampton Mayor Salem Derby was in attendance at the walkout. He said the city wants to keep its schools vibrant with engaged students, but in order to do that, they need the faculty and staff to support them.

“Without an override, our schools are going to be so heavily impacted that it’s critical everybody understands that,” Derby said. “Forty teachers got laid off.”

City leaders are also inviting the public to learn more about the budget process through upcoming community events.

A budget question-and-answer session is scheduled for Thursday at City Hall followed by a community budget forum on June 2.

Copyright 2026 Western Mass News (WGGB/WSHM). All rights reserved.